Closing costs in the canton of Solothurn
Overview
Solothurn charges one of the heftier transfer taxes in Switzerland — and waives it entirely when the property is permanently and exclusively owner-occupied: for the classic home purchase the tax shrinks to zero, provided the buyer moves in within the deadline. Everything is handled by the Amtschreiberei, which unites notariat and land register under one roof; a separate land register fee therefore does not exist. Our fee figures rest on the official price list of the Amtschreibereien — average values built on a base flat fee, so more of a “from” than a precise forecast: the actual invoice follows the effort of the individual case.
The table breaks down the cost blocks with tariff type, who pays, source and check date; whether the exemption applies in your case can be tested in the calculator. The canton overview provides the cross-cantonal comparison, and the mechanics of the tax are explained in the guide to the transfer tax.
The four cost blocks
| Cost block | Tariff | Who pays |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer tax | flat rate Primary-residence relief may apply Source: bgs.so.ch · Last checked: | Buyer |
| Notary fees | several fees Source: so.ch · Last checked: | Buyer |
| Land register fees | not levied Source: so.ch · Last checked: | Buyer |
| Mortgage note | several fees Source: so.ch · Last checked: | Buyer |
Frequently asked questions
Do I pay transfer tax in Solothurn if I move in myself?
Usually not. Acquiring residential property that is permanently and exclusively owner-occupied is tax-exempt by law — provided residence is actually taken up within the deadline.
What is the Amtschreiberei?
The cantonal office that combines notarization and land register under one roof. There is no separate land register fee — it is part of the price of the transfer service.
How reliable are the fee figures for Solothurn?
They are official average values of the Amtschreibereien built on a base flat fee. The actual invoice depends on the effort involved and can differ.